West Virginia University has hired a Wikipedia with a stated purpose: "to contribute more articles for Wikipedia, primarily focusing on West Virginia women and increasing articles on the field of gender studies by 25 percent."

The position is being held for one year and while there is no mention of extending the position, Wiki Consulting Services approves of WVU's plan.

Reducing the gender gap, promoting gender studies, and creating Wikipedia content that focuses on West Virginian women are all admirable aims. On top of that, WVU understands that Wikipedia can't simply have WVU's aims thrown at Wikipedia by a crowd or a layperson. They hired someone who is reportedly familiar with how Wikipedia works.

Whether or not there will be a conflict of interests is yet to be seen but we're sure their expert knows what they're getting into. Regardless, we here at WCS applaud WVU and hope that other universities and public bodies take note. We can't wait to see the fruits of their labor.